Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command thwarted an attempted kidnapping of two police officers and a cleric in Abuja, following a fierce gun duel with suspected bandits.
The targeted victims were identified as DSP Gabriel Tanko, attached to the Force Intelligence Department, and his wife, Mrs. Jummai Tanko, serving at Zone 7 Headquarters.
The suspects reportedly attempted to invade their residence at Aco Phase 2 along GAU Road between 12:00 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. on November 10.
Intelligence report quoted by security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, on Tuesday, indicated that an armed gang was planning to abduct the police couple.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the Commander of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit deployed a tactical team to lay an ambush around the hilly terrain behind the couple’s residence.
“At about 1:02 a.m., the hoodlums, numbering several, approached the house.
“A gun battle ensued and lasted about 15 minutes. The team overpowered the suspects, who fled with possible bullet injuries, “the source said.
During the operation, police recovered an AK-47 magazine loaded with 15 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition at the scene.
The couple was immediately evacuated to safety, while residents who panicked during the exchange of gunfire were later reassured by the police of improved security in the area.
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In a related development, the FCT Police Command reinforced security around the residence of a cleric near the ECWA Church in the same axis, after intelligence suggested he was also a potential target.
Follow-up patrols are ongoing in collaboration with local hunters, vigilantes, and other security agencies.
Authorities have urged residents and medical facilities to promptly report anyone found with bullet wounds to the nearest police station.
The FCT Police Command said efforts are underway to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.